New Year’s Resolutions can be hard to keep when your list of goals is as long as your shopping list. Add on some stress and post-holiday slump and you’re feeling hopeless!

Don’t panic! Here are some tips to help keep your resolutions in check and on track.

Start small. Don’t jump into an unrealistic resolution. For example, instead of promising yourself to go to the gym five times a week, make a promise of three days. This will help you feel more accomplished and help your strive towards the five days.

Change one behavior at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that you have to reassess everything in your life. Instead, focus on changing one thing at a time.

Talk about it. Share your goals and expectations with your family and friends. Having a support system will help you in achieving your goals.

Don’t beat yourself up. If you promised yourself to eat healthy this year and splurge on a bowl of ice cream. Don’t get down about it. We are all human and we are far from perfect. One bowl of ice cream or even a cookie will not permanently destroy your resolution. Everyone has up and downs. Simply recover from your mistakes and get back on track.

The colder months are officially among us! Drafty windows in your home make it less comfortable for you and your family by allowing cold air to enter your home during these fall and winter months. Not only is this a cause for discomfort but it also has a negative impact on the environment.

Leaky windows require heating systems to work harder, therefore increasing energy consumption. You can help keep your home warm while being more energy efficient with a few of these helpful tips:

Caulk or add weather stripping. Small cracks and gaps around windows, which are most often found around windows in older buildings, might not seem like a big deal but can be the biggest reason as to why you have a draft! Fixing these small cracks will go a long way when it comes to keeping your home warm and saving energy.

Install window films. Plastic window films are another option for homeowners looking to keep their home warm and save energy. Heat shrink film can be cut to fit each individual leaky window in a home and help save you tons on energy costs.

Once you have sealed up the cracks and gaps in your window, be sure to open your curtains during the day time. The natural light shining in will warm your home up.

Drafty and leaky windows are bad for homeowners! Not only does it cause you to be uncomfortable but it can drive up your energy bill. Thankfully, there are options!

For information on homeowners insurance or how to save on your homeowners’ premium, give us a call at 516-249-5200.

TNC/Ridesharing has become a popular trend over the past year. However, many consumers have unanswered questions when it comes to ridesharing and insurance.

What is a “TNC”?
TNC stands for “Transportation Network Company”. TNC’s are the companies that offer a ridesharing service. Companies such as Uber and Lyft are examples of popular “TNCs”.

What is “Ridesharing”?
Ridesharing is the use of a personal, non-commercial, privately owned vehicle to provide pre-arranged transportation to others. Passengers request a ride though the Transportation Networks app.

What is a “TNC Driver”?
A TNC Driver is someone who uses their personal, non-commercial vehicle to provide rides for others.

Who must provide insurance for the TNC Driver?
New York State law requires that a TNC provide primary insurance coverage for their drivers through a group policy. TNC drivers are able to obtain their own insurance but must meet the same insurance requirements as the TNC is required to provide.

Will the TNC Driver’s personal automobile policy provide physical damage coverage?
No! The TNC driver’s personal automobile policy will only provide physical damage coverage if an insurer provides the coverage for a TNC drivers vehicle through an endorsement.

Is there an age and licensing requirements to become a TNC driver?
Yes, New York State law requires that TNC drivers must be at least 19 years old and hold a valid and current New York State driver’s license issued by the New York State DMV.

Are there any requirements to become a TNC driver?
Yes, the New York State DMV requires that the TNC conduct a criminal history background check along with a review of the applicant’s driving record. TNC’s must also verify that the applicants vehicles are properly registered and inspected.

If you are a TNC driver or are thinking of becoming one and have questions regarding your insurance, please give us a call at (516) 249-5200 and one of our automobile specialist will be happy to assist you.

October is National Fire Prevention month. According to the NFPA U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 358,300 home structure fires per year during 2010-2014, which represents three-quarters of all structure fires. $6.7 billion in direct damage, or 69% of total direct damage in structure fires.

A tragedy can strike at any time. Preparing cannot only save your life but it can help save others.

Here are some tips that can help you when it comes to fires:
Be sure all of your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

Don’t use candles. Wax with wicks are the most common fire starters among house fires.

Always have a fire extinguisher in an easy to reach place in the event of an emergency.

Make sure there is a smoke detector outside of each bedroom.

Avoid smoking inside your home. If you do smoke inside your home, use a metal canister with sand or water to put out cigarette butts.

Don’t overload electrical outlets or surge bars.

Prepare an evacuation plan with your family in the event of a fire. Be sure to have designated escape spots and a backup escape spots in case other spot are blocked from the fire.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones from fire is important. Preparing now and knowing the basics can help save a life.

When it comes to hurricanes, there are many terms used to describe their levels of strength, and the effect one can expect with it.

Here is what to listen for:

Hurricane Watch: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified area in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone. During a watch, prepare your home and review a plan for evacuation in case warnings are issued.

Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that tropical; storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within a specified area within 48 hours in association with a tropical, subtropical or post tropical cyclone. During a watch, prepare your home and review a plan for evacuation in case warnings are issued.

Hurricane Warning: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified area in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance. The warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected somewhere within the specified area within 36 hours in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone.

Extreme Wind Warning: Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane (115 mph or greater), usually associated with the eyewall, are expected to begin within an hour. Take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.

Be aware that additional watches and warnings are issued to provide detailed information on specific threats such as flood and tornadoes. Local National Weather Service offices issue flash flood/flood watches and warnings as well as tornado warnings.

For more information on what damages are covered under your homeowners insurance due to a hurricane, please give us a call at (516) 249-5200.

Please be advised, flood damages are not covered under your standard homeowners insurance policy. A separate flood policy would be necessary. Call TODAY for a free quotation.

Everyone needs to be prepared for the unexpected. You, as well as your family and friends, will most likely not be together when a disaster strikes. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children or parents are safe?

Here are steps to take before a disaster happens to ensure you and your loved ones will be safe:

Post emergency telephone numbers near the phone.

Install safety features in your home, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.

Inspect your home for items that can move, fall, break or catch fire and correct them.

Have your family learn basic safety measures such as CPR and first aid, how to use a fire extinguisher and also how to turn off the main’s to your gas, water and electric in your home.

Teach children how and when to call 911 in the event of an emergency.

Prepare an emergency supply kit. Here are some important items to consider:

At least a 3-days’ supply of water (one gallon per person per day).

At least a 3 days’ supply of non-perishable food.

One change of clothing and shoes per person.

One blanket or sleeping bag per person.

First aid kit.

Batteries.

Emergency tools.

Flashlight.

Extra set of car keys.

Credit card and cash.

Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.

Prescription and non-prescription medications.

Last but not least, practice and maintain your plan with your loved ones.